Conduct: Both Players and Officials

[williebfree]

Originally Posted by mick

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From 2008-09 Points of Emphasis

5. OFFICIALS’ MECHANICS AND SIGNALS.

Communication and consistency remain the most important elements of good officiating. It is essential for officials to be familiar and comfortable with proper NFHS officiating mechanics and signals. The primary reasons for utilizing only approved NFHS mechanics and signals are:

• Effective court coverage related to Primary Coverage Areas.
• Effective communication between officiating partner(s).
• Provide immediate information and feedback to coaches, players, scorers, timers and fans.

Signals are used to communicate and should never be used to call attention to the official. The majority of signals are used to indicate what has or is happening. Approved NFHS signals are dignified, informative and meaningful. The use of unauthorized signals frequently confuses, because the meaning is unknown. Problems are also created when officials engage in “hit and run” officiating. This occurs when an official blows the whistle and immediately leaves the area without taking the time to follow the proper procedures for calling the foul or violation. Signals should be given in a manner that is calm, under control, unhurried and professional.

Nice post Mick!

Let me start this with ---- Yes, it is tiresome to hear whiny gripes, but we have tools to deal with this if it becomes excessive. But when asked respectfully we should offer "professional" explanations.

I want to focus on officials who appear in a rush (or fearful to explain their call and expose their genuine lack of rules knowledge). They also appear agitated if they are asked legitimate questions from coaches or players. It doesn't take much to clarify your ruling for a coach or player, IF you can efficient respond with the criteria used to make the call.

In regards to the OP, the official may have observed that B1 was not in a LGP, because he was moving into A1 causing displacement. If he offered a brief summarization of this to the player (camargue44) he would have understood the call and hopefully improved his understanding of the rules.

Nonetheless, confident officials with comprehensive rules knowledge, and clear, concise communication can keep things flowing smoothly. Those who are lacking these attributes are a liability to their partner. If both are lacking it can become an ugly scene.